Elmore’s Picks For CMJ 2013

Every year, the newest soon-to-be stars in music take over New York City for the CMJ Music Marathon for five days of non-stop music across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Being based out of New York, we typically look forward to this the way kids look forward to Christmas. Here are some of the bands we’re most excited to see this year.

The History Of Apple Pie

Yes, that’s actually their name, but don’t let that put you off. This London-based quintet is one of the most impressive guitar bands out there right now, playing a modern take on shoegaze and dream pop with excellent male/female vocal dynamics. Imagine Slowdive, but not nearly as precious. Their debut album Out Of View was an impressive first go-round for the band, and we can only expect them to get better as they keep going.

Lost Boy?

Lost Boy? have been dishing out scuzzy, garage-tinged indie rock for a few years. As one of the cornerstones of the Brooklyn DIY music scene that has produced the likes of Titus Andronicus and The So So Glos, the band’s live shows are often an embodiment of that scene’s “anything goes” spirit. True to form, Lost Boy? are eschewing the traditional CMJ venues in favor of Williamsburg’s DIY mainstay Muchmore’s. Come for the cheap beer, stay for the amazing tunes (Listen here).

Darlings

Equal parts post-punk and garage rock, Darlings recall the primal urgency of Joy Division’s early records with Pavement’s wry lyrical output. Their new album Perfect Trip was one of 2013’s unexpected delights, offering a tuneful take on lo-fi indie rock that thankfully emphasized melody and composition over atmosphere and aesthetics. Given how strong their new album is, this could be the year that a lot more people find out about this excellent band.

Yuck

Few bands survive the blow when their lead singer departs, but Yuck have somehow managed to get better since the departure of former frontman Dan Blumberg. Glow & Behold, the latest album from the 90’s-loving Brits, explores new sonic avenues their debut only hinted at while showcasing the dual vocal talents of Max Bloom and Mariko Doi. The combination of the two bring back fond memories of Kevin Shields and Bilinda Butcher at their peak, which can only be a very good thing in our eyes.

Sua

This New York-based shoegaze outfit took us by surprise when they showed up at CMJ 2012. Now, they’re back to win over even more devotees with a new EP (Twins) that stands as one of the best independent releases we’ve heard in a long time. (You can get the EP here.) In a Brooklyn scene that’s become crowded with imitators of all stripes, Sua rise up as one of the few thrilling, truly original groups around now. Take notice.

Caveman

For the New York-based indie-rock band Caveman, CMJ is a piece of cake. Two years ago at the fest, they packed out their plethora of showcases, jumping back and forth between the boroughs. No wonder Fat Possum signed them quickly after.

Joe Fletcher & the Wrong Reasons

Newport Folk Fest. Americana Fest. Deer Tick’s “Dudesmash.” Joe Fletcher & the Wrong Reasons are garnering quite the following. A fan of Willie Nelson, Elvis, the Stones and Hank Williams, Joe Fletcher effortlessly binds together his own tale. Stay tuned for Elmore’s “On the Radar”Nov/Dec issue, featuring Fletcher and company.

Sol Cat

A few months ago, we found 5 reasons why Nashville rocks, and Sol Cat is one of ’em. In the months since, they played Pianos, joined forces with a NYC publicity firm and released one gem of an album. Watch how easily a little bit of groove and some trippy psychedelia reel in the fans.

White Denim

Since their Bonnaroo debut in 2012, it seems the rest of the country is turning onto White Denim. Here’s one rock ‘n’ roll band you and your dad can agree on.

Clear Plastic Masks

You know why Brooklyn band Clear Plastic Masks made the move to Nashville? Because their sound is too good for this city’s overpopulated, hipster-centric scene. A cursory listen sites the Black Keys, but listen closer for the influences: a bit of Keith Richards, some Stevie Wonder and a touch of Iggy for added measure. Keep an eye on these guys.